BBC Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay responded to a listener’s good news, drawing on his own experience as a father to two daughters with Tess Daly
Vernon Kay issued a warning about parenthood to a listener(Image: BBC)
Vernon Kay shared a heartfelt message with a listener who brought some “Good News Wednesday” joy to his BBC Radio 2 show this week. As part of the feature, Vernon read out a note from James, who said he was on his way to hospital to bring home his newborn daughter after she’d spent time in care.
Vernon, who is a dad to two girls himself, welcomed him into what he called “the dad of daughters club”. In a cheerful sing-song voice he added: “James is a daddy of a beautiful daughter.” He also paid tribute to James’ partner, Ella and added: “Bravo team.”
Drawing on his own experience, the presenter then gave him a light-hearted warning about what’s ahead. “James, it’s the best feeling, it really is,” he said. “However, as they get through their teenage years, prepare and practise your very firm, hearty handshake.”
Vernon is father to Phoebe, 21, and Amber, 17, with former Strictly Come Dancing presenter Tess Daly. The couple announced their split in May, describing it as a difficult decision but one made with “mutual understanding” and a desire to do what is best for them both.
In their statement, they said they remain close and are focused on being “loving and supportive parents”, stressing there were “no other parties involved” and asking for privacy as they adjust to the change.
When he returned to Radio 2 after the news, Vernon thanked listeners for their support. “I just want to say on behalf of me and Tess, thank you for all your well wishes,” he said. “It has been greatly, greatly appreciated.”
Following the announcement, Vernon’s father, Norman, also spoke out about the split, telling the Daily Mail that the pair had “gone in different directions” and said there had been no infidelity.
The pair, who married in 2003, are understood to still be living together at their Beaconsfield home, with both also still wearing their wedding rings.
Meanwhile, it was recently revealed that Vernon’s show is the most popular radio show in the country. He has been hosting the mid-morning slot on Radio 2 five days a week since 2023, taking over from Greatest Hits host Ken Bruce.
Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, said of the success: “I’m delighted that Radio 2 remains the UK’s most popular single radio station in the UK. People are tuning in for over 11 hours each week, which is almost a four-year high.
“Congratulations to Vernon Kay, who hosts the UK’s most listened to radio show with a weekly audience of 6.8 million, his highest figure since 2024.”
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